Handmade Crafts » west virginia universityhttp://www.mountainmade.com/blog
The blog of West Virginia handmade art and handmade crafts.Wed, 11 Jul 2012 14:48:29 +0000http://wordpress.org/?v=2.8.5enhourly1New from WVU Ceramics Studiohttp://www.mountainmade.com/blog/new-from-wvu-ceramics-studio
http://www.mountainmade.com/blog/new-from-wvu-ceramics-studio#commentsMon, 28 Mar 2011 20:21:26 +0000Becky Hendersonhttp://www.mountainmade.com/blog/?p=1163Before West Virginia University broke for Spring Break, MountainMade stopped in at the Ceramics Studio and discovered a treasure trove of affordable, functional pieces for you. The WVU Ceramics program is a 3-year intensive program dedicated to teaching traditional pottery making and providing their students with the techniques and skills needed to work as potters.

We selected a few place settings offering dinner and luncheon plates as well as a selection of bowls, cups, mugs, ramekins, mugs and bake ware. These student made pieces are functional, beautiful and just feel good in your hands. Complimentary glazes allow for a few select “sets’, but eclectic collections that you will enjoy using as much as we do. All pieces are sturdy, stoneware pieces that are dishwasher, oven and microwave safe.

This IS the next generation of potters. Built with the integrity and character that can only be found in West Virginia. Enjoy and use well!

Artists using the WVU Ceramics Studio create a steady supply for The MountainMade Gallery.

Carrie, Rich and Becky recently visited the new WVU Ceramics Production Studio. Relocated from its former home in the Creative Arts Center to Baker’s Ridge Road, the new studio provides retail and studio space.

Chris Brown, Production Studio Manager, took us on a tour of the studio and described the process they utilize and their equipment. Chris describes how the new kiln works, which he designed with the input from experts, and the amount of product they can fire. Their product is handcrafted by students, faculty and staff and is dishwasher and microwave safe.

The ceramics program at WVU places a strong emphasis on traditional pottery making and the techniques and skills required to be sound, versatile artist/potters. “We are one of the few programs in America that are using semi-industrial products to help students prepare for realistic jobs,” Brown said.

Carrie and Rich purchased mugs, casseroles, fruit bowls and other pieces. We expect to make another trip as the product is flying out of the store before we can load it to the web.

We have several beautiful Blue and Gold glass pieces to pay artistic homage to the WVU Mountaineers.

Every West Virginian takes pride in the accomplishments of our basketball team. We have felt the “thrill of victory and the agony of defeat” with these outstanding young men, their coaches and staff.

To recognize the WVU Mountaineer Basketball team’s accomplishments, MountainMade features its blue and gold glass products this week. Perhaps you are looking for a graduation present for a special WVU graduate or a birthday present for an alumna. For West Virginians everywhere, blue and gold is always in fashion and never goes out of style.

Here are my favorite West Virginia University Blue and Gold glass pieces for the Mountaineer in your life: